Review: Tadashi Shoji Lace Tea-Length Dress (+ 10 cute black lace holiday dresses under $200)

Hey guys! Marianne here with a little dress review. First, some background: I found myself a predicament this past month where I had 3 formal events requiring a capital-D Dress. They weren't close enough together to make Rent the Runway work (plus the ONLY dresses I liked that were available were $200 just to RENT), however they were with different people so I could get away with just one fancy dress purchase. Because I was going to be able to wear this multiple times right away, I felt justified in spending a bit more than I normally would. Enter this dress:

The Tadashi Shoji Lace Tea-Length Dress. It literally had everything I wanted. It was interesting but still felt covered up (I really did not want sleeveless, strapless, or off-the-shoulder, but I wanted something pretty and feminine). It was a great cut for my figure (fitted on top and flaring at the waist). And most importantly it was under $400 and I could order it from Nordstrom, which meant a great return policy and free shipping. And guys, it's a very good dress!

The lace is very delicate but I wore it three times, including traveling with it, and it still looks great. It's crazy flattering and I got more compliments than I can count, and best of all now it lives in my closet where I know it will be a pretty timeless classic for years. 

But y'all, I know. It's a $400 fancy dress, and that's a lot. I had to go with it because I really didn't have time to dig for alternatives that may not fit me as well. But now I have some time, so I found 10 cute black lace party dresses with a similar cut, all under $200 (and most well under $100!). Go forth and party, y'all. Tis the season, etc.

Alternatives:

(Under $50!)

(petite, under $30!)